The King: "Xi Jinping Places Great Importance on Visiting Korea... 'Five Eyes' Is a Relic of the Cold War Era"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Ji-eun] Wang Yi, Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister, stated on the 15th that "Chinese President Xi Jinping attaches great importance to his visit to South Korea" and that high-level exchanges will be conducted depending on the COVID-19 situation. Regarding recent media reports that the United States is attempting to include South Korea in the 'Five Eyes' alliance, he dismissed it as "a product of the Cold War era."

After holding the Korea-China Foreign Ministers' Meeting at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs that morning, Minister Wang told reporters, "China has a strong will to strengthen high-level exchanges."

Minister Wang said, "frequent interactions among neighboring countries are necessary, and President Xi attaches great importance to visiting South Korea," adding, "However, the current COVID-19 situation is unstable, and high-level exchanges can be safely conducted once the COVID-19 situation is completely stabilized."

He also sent a message to counter the United States. When asked about the expansion of the 'Five Eyes' intelligence alliance, Minister Wang dismissed it as "completely a product of the Cold War era" and responded, "It is already outdated."

Regarding rumors of close Korea-US ties, Minister Wang emphasized, "One thing is clear. China and South Korea are inseparable neighbors and partners who must maintain a friendly relationship," adding, "There have been many changes over the past 30 years, and these have brought very practical benefits to our two peoples. We want Korea-China relations to continue to develop."

He also defended North Korea's missile launches. Minister Wang explained, "Of course, we all hope to do things that contribute to peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula," but "not only North Korea but other countries are also conducting military actions."

Although the North Korean delegation was not allowed to participate in the Beijing Olympics, when asked whether Kim Jong-un, General Secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea, or other high-level officials would be invited to the opening ceremony, Minister Wang replied, "As the host country, China wants to discuss with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and leaders of various countries whether invitations can be extended," adding, "Currently, it is under discussion."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.